Get to know a grad: Hannah, Mechanical Design

Hi! I’m Hannah, I graduated from Lancaster University in July 2022 with a master’s in mechanical engineering having also completed a placement year. I joined Frazer-Nash in September as part of the mechanical design team in the Dorking office.

What attracted you to working for Frazer Nash?

The variety of work across such a diverse range of industries! I felt that it would be a good fit for me as it would allow me the opportunity to learn lots and gain plenty of experience whilst being able to help make a difference. Additionally, when researching Frazer-Nash before applying I felt the values of ‘we care’, ‘we’re trusted’, ‘we deliver success’ and ‘we want to do things that matter’, really resonated with me. The other thing I also looked for in my research and found about Frazer-Nash was information/ articles about women in STEM and STEM outreach which I feel are important.

What is the culture like at the company?

I think the culture at Frazer-Nash can be summarised by the values, two of them being ‘we care’ and ‘we want to do things that matter’

‘We Care’: From day one I’ve felt like my opinions and ideas are listened to and valued whether that’s to do with project work, my career journey or the learning and development activities I would like to undertake. Plus, even before I started, I found I was asked which area of the business I would be most interested in working in and my skills and experience were also considered before it was decided which team I joined.

‘We Want to Do Things That Matter’: I’ve found the project work I’ve been involved with from day one helps to solve-real world problems that allow you to help make a difference. Additionally, there are different diversity and inclusion initiatives such as women in STEM. There is also the STEM outreach hub so if you would like to get involved with outreach at Frazer-Nash it is something that is supported which is great.

Describe a typical day in your role

You might have heard people say no two days are the same in consultancy and this is generally true.

My day-to-day activities typically include research, Computer Aided Design, creating drawings and/ or presentations.

Some days there are also learning and development opportunities whether that’s through the staggered induction process when you first join Frazer-Nash right the way through to structured courses all aimed at helping you to deliver success in projects. For example, I recently attended a technical report writing course.

What do you wish you’d known on your first day?

That you’re not treated as a graduate, you’re trusted and treated as an equal from day one with real work and real responsibilities. I’ve also found this is reflected in the job titles – I’m an engineer not a graduate engineer.

I would also say that if you have an idea of what type of project work or other activities, you want to get involved with then just ask - it’s never too early to ask!

Do you have any tips for Bright Network members aspiring to join Frazer Nash?

The application process for graduate jobs can be daunting but remember it’s a two-way process. It is as much about you finding out if the role and company are the right fit for you as it is for the company. The interview is a great opportunity to ask any questions you might have.

You will usually be asked technical questions at interview, but don’t panic- the interviewer just wants to see how you approach the problem and your thought process. They understand interviews are nerve-wracking and just want you to do well!